George Hamilton, food & agriculture field specialist for UNH Cooperative Extension in Hillsborough County, has been selected as the 2020 Northeast Region National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA) Hall of Fame recipient. The NACAA Hall of Fame Award recognizes Hamilton’s commitment, dedication, humanitarian service and effective leadership as an outstanding educator.
The award is reserved only for those who have demonstrated exceptional work, above and beyond normal expectations throughout their career and is presented annually to just one person from each of the four NACAA regions.
“George Hamilton is truly deserving of this prestigious award and is the first ever New England recipient since the award’s inception in 2006,” said Ken La Valley, vice provost of University Outreach and Engagement and director of UNH Extension.
During Hamilton's 30 years with UNH Extension, he was instrumental in the development of many of the organization’s most impactful agricultural programs, such as the Extension monitoring and reporting program. Hamilton excels in building durable partnerships with grower associations to achieve tremendous outcomes.
Amy Papineau, program team leader for Extension’s Food & Agriculture, said, "George personally cares about the success and happiness of each of his colleagues and spends much time mentoring new staff. Likewise, he is well known for the emotional support he has offered to farmers in times of need. When trying situations arise, the agricultural community knows they can call on George for advice, support and honest friendship."
